The Lagos State Government has made a significant announcement, cancelling the highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Greater Lagos Fiesta. This major end-of-year concert, known for featuring Nigeria's top music stars on December 31, will not proceed as planned.
Official Announcement and Governor's Directive
The decision was officially communicated by Mr Jubril Gawat, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Lagos State, via a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The announcement relayed an official statement from Mr Gboyega Akosile, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity.
According to the statement, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu personally approved the cancellation of the event scheduled for December 31, 2025. In a notable shift from the traditional celebration, the governor issued a directive for how Lagos residents should mark the transition into the new year.
A Call for Prayer Over Celebration
Instead of the usual large-scale concert and countdown festivities, which typically feature A-list artists like Olamide, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Seyi Vibez, Governor Sanwo-Olu has urged Lagosians to spend the period in personal prayer and reflection.
The governor encouraged residents to pray specifically for:
- The continued prosperity of the nation and Lagos State.
- Good leadership and peace across all levels.
- Increased productivity and the general wellbeing of the people.
"Lagos State Government cancels Greater Lagos Fiesta 2025," the statement confirmed, putting an end to speculation about the event. Governor Sanwo-Olu called on citizens to reflect on the outgoing year and seek divine guidance as the state and country prepare to enter 2026. He emphasised the critical importance of unity, peace, and shared responsibility in the collective mission to build a better Lagos.
Governor's New Year Message and Assurance
Despite the cancellation of the fiesta, Governor Sanwo-Olu extended his new year wishes to all residents. "On behalf of my family, I wish every resident of our dear State a happy and prosperous new year," he said.
He expressed optimism for the coming year, assuring Lagosians that his administration remains steadfast in its commitment to improved governance and meaningful development. "I want to assure you all that the year 2026 will be a better year for us in the State, as our administration is determined to work twice as hard to deliver the good for the residents of the state," Governor Sanwo-Olu added.
The governor further appealed for continued peaceful coexistence and harmony among residents, stressing that collective effort and cooperation are indispensable for the state's progress. The official statement did not provide specific reasons for the event's cancellation, focusing instead on the themes of prayer, reflection, and communal goodwill.
The Greater Lagos Fiesta has grown over the years into a major cultural and entertainment highlight, marking New Year's Eve with music, performances, and fireworks across multiple venues in the state. While the 2025 celebration is called off, the government's message concluded with confidence, describing 2026 as a year full of promise for both Lagos State and Nigeria at large.
